Most would take one look at my feet and proclaim them to be fairly unattractive, yet that doesn't stop my from embracing Summertime and all of the fantastic open toed shoes! In fact, I was in Southern California last weekend, and was shopping down by the beach and looking for the perfect pair of summer flip flops. They seem to be a staple for anyone living in one of the beach towns.. so I of course, had to buy a new pair immediately to take home with me. Now it seems like buying a pair of flip flops would not be too difficult but because my feet are less than attractive (well, mainly it's my larger than life "big toe") every pair that I picked out and tried on, my boyfriend would so eloquently look down at my feet then up at me and tell me, "NO". After several stores and many pairs of shoes, at long last though, we found a pair that actually complemented my feet! Hallelujah!
Along the way though, I couldn't help but notice all the great styles out right now in preparation for the summer season. Sandals seem to be everywhere, and this year the more unique the better! I also stumbled across Elle Magazine's latest guide to summer shoes: CAUTION: there's some pricey ones in here. But it does provide a great overview of the trends for this summer!
Here's the link to the online story: http://www.elle.com/Shopping/Elle-Shops/Summer-s-Best-Shoes
What I love about this Summer sandals is you aren't just limited to flats. Heels and wedges are making a great comeback as well. Plus, there are so many fun gladiator sandals that are great with dresses, skirts, jeans, shorts, you name it!
Franco Sarto is one of our favorite shoe brands at Tog + Porter. They offer great quality shoes, in all the latest styles, that won't break your bank. These black strappy heels, are a great summer shoe. This summer the shoes are bold and big, so don't be afraid to wear that higher heel or something a little bit more bold than you are used to! These heels would look great with a pencil skirt at work, or even a sexy black dress or shorts for a night out.
Gladiator sandals are the must have shoe for this summer! The strappy flat sandal comes in a variety of colors, shapes, sizes and just about every company is knocking out a version for themselves. If you're looking for more of an everyday sandal, I would tend to stay with a more simple style, not so many straps or designs and in a neutral color. This Sam Edelman sandal, has a simple, jewel design, in a great basic neutral perfect to carry you from Spring to Fall. They look great with a pair of jeans rolled up a bit, a fun skirt or even shorts on the weekend. 
A sandal that is always in style is the wedge. The wedge sole provides a little more support then a basic heel, yet can still provide you with the height you want to make your tan legs feel long, lean and sexy in the summertime! The black wedge heels with the strappy design from Franco Sarto are a perfect compliment to any wardrobe. Besides, from being very comfortable they are also very versatile and could be easily paired with a black dress for at night, or dressed down with a pair of shorts.
Last but certainly not least, are the always comfortable flats. Its' hard to go wrong with a great looking pair of flats in the summer. I love this pair from Sam Edelman because they combine two great summer trends: metallics and flats. Just because it's summer doesn't mean you have to pack up all of those great metallic shoes. The colors can easily be used as a neutral and paired with many different summer outfits from skirts to dresses and jeans for those cooler summer night. They are so comfortable and can be worn all year long!
Alright, off to the salon for that pedicure...
Happy Shopping!
